What Is Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5?
Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5 is a lab-crafted ingredient made by linking coumaric acid, a plant-derived antioxidant found in many fruits and grains, with Sh-Pentapeptide-5, a short chain of five amino acids designed to signal skin cells. Joining the two creates a hybrid molecule that pairs the protective power of a natural antioxidant with the targeted action of a peptide.
The idea of bonding antioxidants to peptides took shape in the early 2000s when formulators looked for ways to boost peptide stability and broaden their benefits. Today this ingredient is produced through standard peptide synthesis followed by a gentle chemical reaction that attaches the coumaric acid. The finished material is a fine powder that dissolves easily in water-based or light emulsion formulas.
You will most often see Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5 in anti-aging serums, firming creams, lightweight moisturizers, eye treatments and after-sun masks where it supports smoother, stronger looking skin.
Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare formulas Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5 works in two key ways:
- Antioxidant – helps neutralize free radicals created by UV light and pollution which can otherwise lead to dullness or early lines, keeping the formula and the skin surface more stable
- Skin protecting – supports the skin’s natural barrier by signalling cells to produce essential proteins, improving resilience against daily stress and reducing visible signs of fatigue
Who Can Use Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5
This peptide-antioxidant combo is generally friendly to all skin types. Dry skin enjoys the added support for its barrier, oily or combination skin benefits from the feather-light texture it is usually formulated in, and sensitive skin tends to tolerate the molecule because it is non-acidic and fragrance-free by itself. People with very reactive or allergy-prone skin should still check the full ingredient list of any product since irritation usually stems from other additives rather than the peptide.
The ingredient is produced through plant-derived coumaric acid and laboratory-synthesised amino acids, with no animal by-products involved, so it is typically suitable for vegans and vegetarians. As always cruelty-free status depends on the finished brand’s policies, not the raw material alone.
No specific warnings exist for pregnancy or breastfeeding, and the peptide has no known hormonal activity. Still, research on newer cosmetic actives in these groups is limited. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have their doctor review any skincare product they plan to use just to be safe.
Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5 does not increase photosensitivity. In fact its antioxidant action helps the skin handle everyday sun exposure, though a broad-spectrum sunscreen is still essential.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5 differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated.
- Mild redness or warmth at the application site
- Temporary stinging or tingling, most often around the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis for individuals sensitive to peptides or coumaric acid derivatives
- Interaction with very acidic or highly oxidizing products, which could reduce the ingredient’s effectiveness and trigger irritation in rare cases
If any discomfort, persistent redness or rash occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5. Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5 is a small, water-soluble molecule with no oily or waxy residues so it does not clog pores. It sits lightly on the skin and is typically used at low concentrations in fluid serums or gels, further reducing any chance of buildup.
Because it carries a negligible risk of pore blockage, this ingredient is considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin types.
Keep in mind that the overall formula still matters; rich creams or heavy occlusives paired with the peptide could raise the likelihood of congestion even though the peptide itself is non-comedogenic.
Summary
Coumaroyl Sh-Pentapeptide-5 combines an antioxidant from plants with a cell-signaling peptide to deliver two key benefits: it helps neutralize free radicals that lead to dullness and early wrinkles, and it encourages skin cells to strengthen the barrier for smoother, more resilient skin. This dual action makes it a versatile addition to anti-age, firming and post-sun products.
Although it is effective the ingredient is still relatively niche, showing up mostly in forward-thinking indie lines and a handful of premium formulas rather than on every drugstore shelf.
Overall safety is high with very low comedogenicity, no known hormonal activity and only rare irritation reports. As with any new skincare active it is wise to patch test a fresh product on a small area before full use just to be safe.